Mattress Life Cycle
The Better Sleep Council recommends a change in mattress every five to seven years. However, several factors influence your mattress' life cycle. Typically, you should get a new mattress when your current one is providing less comfort and support because of wear and age. Does this Spark an idea?
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Mattress Age
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The age of your mattress is a poor indicator in determining whether it's time for a new one. Though it is recommended to change every five to seven years, some mattresses will last up to 10 years if properly kept.
Body
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The mattress should meet your current needs for space, comfort and support. With age, your body will change and require a superior level of comfort and support than when you were younger. When your mattress starts becoming uncomfortable, this may be a sign that it needs to be replaced.
The size of a mattress is also an important factor to take into consideration. The size of a mattress for a child will differ from that of an adult. When the person outgrows the mattress, it's time for a new one. -
Quality
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The quality of your mattress is very important. Like many other household items, a top quality mattress can provide better comfort and support for many years. A poor-quality mattress can deteriorate quicker and therefore will need to be changed sooner.
Usage
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How often you use your mattress has a significant effect on its life span. A mattress that is used nightly is more likely to last a shorter amount of time. Another factor that could influence the mattress' life span is whether you watch television or read in bed. A guest bedroom mattress will have a longer life cycle.
You should replace a mattress that has visible wear and tear. Another sign is that the mattress is saggy or lumpy. Waking up tired and achy is a good indication that your mattress is worn out.
Care
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Taking proper care of your mattress increases its life cycle. Using an appropriate protective pad to keep it free from stains is always a good idea. Children should not be using the mattress as a trampoline.
A good way to care for your mattress is to rotate it. A single-sided mattress should be rotated from end-to-end (180 degrees). A double-sided mattress should be rotated as well, and then turned over so the foot of the mattress is now at the head. For a new mattress, you should rotate it every two weeks for the first three months, then once every two months afterward.
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References
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